The best back to school hairstyles for long hair

Need some inspo for stylish school hairstyles? From plaits to ponytails, we have you covered.

When preparing for back-to-school, it’s easy to focus on the essentials – comfy yet appropriate school shoes, a well-stocked supply of stationery, and all the other items they need for a successful year. But what about the things that don’t come with a price tag?

Some tasks may seem simple, but certain hairstyles can be surprisingly tricky to master. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! We’ve rounded up five of the best school hairstyles for long hair, complete with step-by-step guides that both you and your child will love.

The best back to school hairstyles for long hair

1. Basic ballet bun, 2. Half up half down, 3. Layered/bubble ponytail, 4. Fishtail braid, 5. Double dutch braid

The best back to school hairstyles for long hair

1. Basic ballet bun

  1. Gather the hair into a high ponytail and tie with a hair elastic.
  2. Twist the hair from the ponytail.
  3. Wrap the hair around the hair elastic and secure with bobby pins or another hair elastic.
  4. Optional: Accessorise with a ribbon or hair clips.

IMAGE: Double up and add some ribbons like Millie Bobby Brown. (Getty Images)

1. Basic ballet bun, 2. Half up half down, 3. Layered/bubble ponytail, 4. Fishtail braid, 5. Double dutch braid

2. Half up half down

Another easy school hairstyle, this one is perfect for those who can’t decide if they want it up or down. It’s super simple, will keep the hair out of their face and look adorable.

  1. Collect two portions of hair from the side and tie them together with a hair elastic or secure with pins.
  2. Jazz it up by braiding (see below) or adding hair accessories.

Image: Go as simple or as jazzed up as you like (Instagram @fave4girllynne)

1. Basic ballet bun, 2. Half up half down, 3. Layered/bubble ponytail, 4. Fishtail braid, 5. Double dutch braid

3. Layered/bubble ponytail

Ponytails may sound basic and boring, but this is a fun way to make it a little bit more interesting. Using brightly coloured hair elastics will make it pop even more.

  1. Divide the hair into four sections: They should be stacked vertically starting at the top of the head to the nape of the neck.
  2. Tie the first section into a ponytail, then tie the second into a ponytail adding the first one in.
  3. Repeat for the third and fourth ponytails.

Image: Bubble ponytails can endure all those active activities. (Instagram @fave4girllynne)

1. Basic ballet bun, 2. Half up half down, 3. Layered/bubble ponytail, 4. Fishtail braid, 5. Double dutch braid

Woman travelling in Florence. She is looking away from the camera wearing sunglasses.

4. Fishtail braid

Fishtail braids may look complicated, but they’re worth the fiddly practice! Trust us, those first day back photos will look amazing.

  1. Brush hair thoroughly.
  2. Tie a ponytail at their nape and split into two sections.
  3. Overlap thin sections of hair from the outside of each section over to each other.
  4. Pull each section firmly as you go and repeat until you reach the end.
  5. Secure with a hair elastic.

Image: Like a plait, only fancier! (Getty)

1. Basic ballet bun, 2. Half up half down, 3. Layered/bubble ponytail, 4. Fishtail braid, 5. Double dutch braid

high angle view of little girl head with braided hairstyle.

5. Double dutch braid

This one is great for thick hair and will look fabulous whether they’re sitting in the classroom or dashing around the soccer field.

  1. Tie a middle section into a ponytail.
  2. Grab a front section and divide into three strands.
  3. Tuck the outer strands under the middle strand.
  4. Pull through more sections of hair from the front side only.
  5. Continue and secure with a hair elastic. Then do the same on the other side.
  6. Tie all three braids together into one ponytail and braid together.
  7. Twist into a bun and secure with pins.

Image: Once you master braids, you’ll never go back. (Getty)